Tags – Tips to Improve Your Mental Health During COVID-19
It has been widely acknowledged that COVID-19 has had an adverse effect on many of the population’s mental health.
How can it not?
Whilst the media is full of scaremongering stories and political debate, the anxiety caused by the pandemic affects every age. For example, children are anxious, frightened and seeking stability.
Equally, the elderly are lonely and being warned by the media daily that they are vulnerable and at huge risk.
One thing’s for sure, it’s one big nightmare which no one has any control over.
So, how can you try to lessen the impact?Moreover, how can you reduce the stress levels of all members of your family?
Here are our 5 top tips:
Support Yourself
There’s lots of support available for those with concerns.
As the old adage says, ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’ and it’s true, talking helps.
In addition, the NHS Volunteers Service has been set up to provide a ‘check in and chat’ service.
Aimed at those feeling isolated, the 0808 196 3646 helpline is open 8am to 8pm. Alternatively, the amazing charity, MIND has lots of helpful information on their website too.
Support Others
Interestingly, supporting and helping others brings a significant positive impact on our own wellbeing.
For example, if you were to offer to fetch a few groceries for a neighbour, it makes you feel useful.
Whilst it’s obviously essential to adhere to the government guidelines, a cheery call to someone living alone will give a lift to you both. By supporting others, it will help you keep matters in perspective.
Routine
A routine is essential in terms of keeping good mental health.
Although most people’s pre-COVID routines have been disrupted, it’s important to create one for your day.
Whether your routine includes working, household chores or childcare, build in healthy practices. For instance, keeping busy engenders positivity so activities like keeping in touch with friends will help enormously.
Equally, building in normal activities such as cooking, cleaning and exercise will maintain a sense of purpose and achievement.
Sleep
Good quality sleep helps us to cope much better with any issue with which we’re faced.
Whilst we’re all aware that anxiety can make sleep difficult, it’s important to lessen that effect. For instance, try and introduce a more regular sleep pattern.
Additionally, it can help if you reduce any screen time directly before sleeping.
Similarly, cutting back on caffeine will also help.
Look After Yourself
Ignoring your physical wellbeing will, without doubt, lead to issues with your mental health.
It’s crucial to maintain healthy routines in terms of your eating and exercise. For example, eating regular, well-balanced, nutritious meals maintains your blood sugar level.
As such, you will feel better and not put on weight which is another great source of anxiety and stress.
Equally, adding a regular slot for exercise to your routine will keep you upbeat and healthy.
Better still if that exercise is outside even if it’s a short walk each day or a spot of gardening.
It’s important to recognise that looking after your own physical wellbeing will help you maintain your emotional and mental health.
By doing so, this also means you’re available to support your friends and family too.
To learn more, get in touch with us today.
This blog was produced in collaboration with the new Oxford Taxis service from The Oxford Minibus Company.